Balancing cost, control, and choice in business travel
In a whirlwind of technological advances and evolving traveler expectations, the landscape of business travel is rapidly transforming. In our recent webinar, “Embracing the Future: AI, Budgets, and Individualism in Business Travel,” industry experts dove deep into how these shifts are creating new opportunities rather than obstacles.
Featuring insights from Dr. Poppy Crum , a futurist and neuroscientist, Scott Alboni , CMO of FCM, and Melissa Elf , COO of FCM, the discussion covered AI’s impact on workforce management, cost efficiency, and the traveler experience.
Curious to learn more? We unpacked some quotes from the webinar to further explore these transformative trends. Here’s a sneak peek into their valuable insights:
“How do we automate the ordinary to deliver the extraordinary?” - Melissa Elf, Chief Operating Officer, FCM Travel.
Over the years, business travel has faced a variety of challenges—changing technologies, economic factors, and shifting industry priorities. Now, in 2025, there is a whole new set of considerations. We’re seeing artificial intelligence (AI) change efficiencies, inflation pressures, and travelers demanding a more personalized experience. But here’s the twist: Rather than fearing change and forcing outdated models, corporate travel professionals can rewrite the rules.
Empowerment, not replacement
"AI is good at the IQ, but you still need humans to drive the EQ." – Melissa Elf.
There's no denying that AI can handle many mundane tasks of traditional work. But does that mean humans are being replaced? Not quite. Instead, AI is becoming a powerful enabler. Imagine AI enhancing booking processes, answering routine queries, and recognizing travel patterns— enabling travel managers to focus on creating seamless, personalized experiences.
"If we think about some of the things our customers want...they want travel to be seamless, a great experience for their people, and an official way of booking. They want the best choice, best pricing, and value across their programs, and they just want their travelers to be safe and accounted for. AI has the ability to enhance all of this through data." – Melissa Elf.
It’s not just about cutting costs but improving productivity and traveler satisfaction. Travel managers should embrace AI's role in removing friction and automating repetition. Then, lean on human expertise for the moments that truly matter.
See the full budget picture
Increased scrutiny on corporate travel budgets demands more than just cutting costs. AI is stepping in to help consolidate data and normalize pricing structures, providing full visibility and control.
“One of the biggest challenges we face is the fragmented nature of travel content. AI can now consolidate and present this information in a normalized way, which will ultimately lead to better savings, choice, and confidence." – Melissa Elf.
The future of corporate travel tech?tools includes combining airline pricing trends, capacity, schedules, and even sustainability data to optimize travel spending while still aligning with corporate goals. This means businesses won’t just get the cheapest option, they’ll get the best choice based on their needs.
More flexibility & choice
Traditional travel policies are becoming obsolete, with AI shifting travel from structured and rigid to personalized and flexible. As companies try to weigh in on policy control and traveler satisfaction, one-size-fits-all travel programs are falling apart.
Employees want autonomy in their travel decisions. Whether that be prioritizing sustainability, maximizing loyalty benefits, route optimizing, or choosing comfort—the choice will be theirs.
"Some travelers want a black-box experience where everything is done for them, and they just show up. Others want full control. AI can enable both." – Dr. Poppy Crum, Futurist, Technologist, & Neuroscientist.
Instead of forcing travelers into strict policies, AI can help companies create hyper-personalization that allows companies to offer choice while still maintaining oversight. Imagine a system that suggests routes based on a traveler's sustainability preferences or guides employees toward cost-effective flights that still meet their loyalty goals. Or even better, the system registers if another traveler is on the same route and makes car sharing available.
"Understanding the uniqueness of your traveler is key. How do you provide and predict the experiences that will most impact and resonate with them?" – Dr. Poppy Crum.
Control is out. Better guidance, respected differences, and a holistic view of business travel is in.
Watch the full conversation
We’ve only scratched the surface. Want to hear more and dive deeper on how to change up your corporate travel program? What the full webinar on demand.